Articles Tagged "Plano"

After a busy day, our real estate agents want a satisfying home-cooked meal with someone else doing the work. When these moods strike, they head for the retro charms of these delightful diners around the Dallas-Fort Worth area. 

• Mama's Daughters' Diner - 2412 W. Shady Grove Rd., Irving, TX 75060
  As the owners of Mama's Daughters' Diner proudly proclaim, "the only thing you'll find instant here is our service." Mama Norma, along with her daughters and granddaughters, turns out a menu of scratch-made comfort food favorites, such as meatloaf, chicken-fried steak, and biscuits & gravy. Daily specials offer your choice of entree with three sides for only $10.99. Save room for freshly-baked pie or cobbler. Stop in for lunch on a day of viewing Irving homes for sale. Hours are 7 a.m. - 8 p.m. on weekdays and 7 a.m. - 3 p.m. on weekends.
  
  
• Norma's Cafe - 605 W. 15th St., Plano, TX 75075
  While the diner's namesake is no longer involved, the owners of Norma's Cafe carry on the proud tradition she started back in 1956. Norma's is probably best known for their generous breakfasts, which include Mexican-style dishes. The menu also features nostalgic blue-plate specials with vegetables, homemade rolls, and cornbread. Satisfy your sweet tooth with a slice of their famous Mile-High Pies™ in five different flavors, or get one to go after touring Plano homes for sale. Norma's is open seven days a week from 7 a.m. - 8 p.m.
  
  
• Lucky's Cafe - 3531 Oak Lawn Ave., Dallas, TX 75219
  From the pastel neon sign out front to the old-school kitchen pass-through, Lucky's Cafe provides a comfortingly retro ambiance just minutes from Dallas homes for sale. But the food gets a modern update with farm-to-table dishes made with locally-sourced ingredients. Due to popular demand, Lucky's began serving their breakfast menu all day, so you can enjoy decadent banana cognac pancakes or hearty pot roast hash anytime. Vegans and vegetarians may be delightfully surprised to find several meatless options, such as sweet potato hash and veggie enchiladas. Lucky's is open every day from 7 a.m. - 9 p.m.
  
  
• Local Diner - 477 W. Bethel Rd., Coppell, TX 75019
  Local Diner, right down the street from Coppell homes for sale, may have been founded in 1989, but they have the classic food and friendly customer service down pat. "Breakfast by the Number" is scaled-down portions of their full-size meals, with budget-friendly prices that start at just $3.25. Each month, the spotlight is on a new special such as September's Fair Food Feast of lemonade, corn dog, and funnel cake fries. Become an insider when you join the E-Club. Members receive a 10 percent discount daily, along with a birthday gift and other special offers. Hours are 6:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. daily. 
  
  
• Spiral Diner & Bakery - 1314 W. Magnolia Ave., Fort Worth, TX 76104
  Beef is king around Forth Worth homes for sale, yet Spiral Diner & Bakery defied expectations by opening a successful restaurant featuring a completely plant-based menu. Burgers come in a choice of cashew-quinoa, veggie, or "beyond" patties, while Mexican dishes are topped with their signature cashew-based nacho cheese. Cakes and cookies baked on-site are vegan, dairy-free, and egg-free. Hours are 10 a.m. - 10 p.m. daily.

For a real treat, get your diner meal to go and gather around the dining table in your Dallas-Fort Worth home. Contact us at RE/MAX DFW Associates for experienced help with all your real estate needs. 

The North Texas housing market is downshifting quickly, with Dallas-Fort Worth being the only U.S. market to see a decrease in home sale prices last month, according to a report released today.  DFW home prices are down 1.9% year over year in July, according to the latest Re/Max National Housing Report.

And what a difference a month makes.  Last month, DFW led the U.S. for home price increases, with June prices up 29.3% over the previous year.   In hard numbers, home sales prices in DFW fell to $413,900 in July from $422,000 in July 2021.   Homes in DFW spend an average of 23 days on the market before selling.

Higher interest rates and inflation, as well as record home prices, triggered a sharp drop in demand for housing, said Todd Luong, a realtor with Re/Max DFW Associates:  "Here at our Re/Max office in Dallas-Fort Worth, our listings are currently getting on average 2.7 showings per week," Luong said. "Last year, at this same time, our listings were earning on average 5.9 showings per week. That is a huge drop in buyer demand compared to the previous year. Record home prices and higher mortgage rates have forced many potential buyers out of the market, especially first-time homebuyers."

While the latest trends may disappoint some sellers, buyers now have more choices and better opportunities for good deals, Luong said.   Luong said that the DFW housing market has been challenged with low inventory for years and reached an all-time low earlier this year, with only a two-week supply. Now, however, inventory is increasing.  "Although buyers have more choices now, it is still not a balanced market as we only have about a two-month housing supply," Luong said. "In a normal market, you have about a five to six-month supply of housing."

A new report from Zillow also found falling home values, although the numbers didn't match Re/Max's precisely because of different study methods and different geographic definitions of DFW as a metro area, among other reasons.  According to Zillow's findings, the Dallas-Fort Worth metro area's typical home value is $396,904, down 1.1% since June, the first month of decline. Values are up 55.4% since July 2019.

Zillow also reported that the mortgage payment on a typical home in DFW is $2,633 a month, including taxes and insurance. That's up 77.4% compared to July 2019.

According to Zillow, inventory in DFW has risen 10.2% since June, and the share of listings with a price cut in July was 22%, compared to 15.6% in June.  Nationwide, after two years of unprecedented growth, home values fell for the first time since 2012 as competition for houses eased, according to Zillow's July market report.

The slowdown is being driven by decreased competition among buyers. Zillow's analysis says that affordability pressures have pushed many to the sidelines, and buyers are waiting in the wings to resume their search if and when prices relax a bit.  Skylar Olsen, Zillow's chief economist, called the flattening of home values "a badly needed rebalancing.  This slowdown is about discouraged buyers pulling back after the affordability shock from higher rates," Olsen said. "As prices soften, many will renew their interest, and we will continue our progress back to 'normal.'"

Luong said he sees positive signs in the market.  The interest rate for a 30-year fixed mortgage dropped below 5% after peaking in June. More than 290,000 new jobs were added in Dallas-Fort Worth last year, so North Texas has one of the strongest labor markets in the country.   "Reasonably priced homes that are in good condition and move-in ready are still selling very fast," he said. "However, the bidding wars have subsided considerably across the board."

• Dallas Business Journal, August 19, 2022

Plano homes for sale put you right in the middle of one of Texas's great centers of culture and fine arts.

Our real estate agents know that when you're buying a home, it's not just about picking the right piece of property. You want to move into the right community – one you'll be excited to live in for many years to come. As the ninth-biggest city in Texas, Plano has so much to offer.

The Downtown Plano Arts District Ranks as One of the Top 10 Best Downtowns in America

The Downtown Plano Arts District has a style all its own. You can catch a show at some of the top venues in the Lone Star State, discover boutiques, galleries, and antique shops, or savor scrumptious fine dining.

Downtown Plano Arts District is a vibrant place, energized by more than ten major public artworks that have been unveiled over the last few years. You'll see sculptures, murals, and more, all commemorating Plano's fascinating history, culture, and future.

Plano's Arts District is also the centerpiece of its social calendar. More than a dozen annual events take place every year, and McCall Plaza hosts trivia, live musical performances, and more every week. There's always something to do, no matter the season or the reason.

Some of the biggest Plano Arts District events include Asiafest, the Plano International Festival, Plano Artfest, Steinfest, and the Urban Movement Festival. For those who want to get involved, there are countless community groups to join – and, of course, you can always start your own.

Let's look at five popular stops along your Arts District journey:

• The Interurban Railway Museum – 901 East 15th Street, Plano, TX 75074
  Located in Haggard Park, The Interurban Railway Museum was formerly the Plano station of the Texas Electric Railway. The station was completed in 1908 and operated until 1948 before it was converted to an interpretive site for the history of Texas rail. Visitors of all ages are admitted free.
  
  
• McCall Plaza – 998 East 15th Street, Plano, TX 75074
  McCall Plaza is a popular public music and arts venue you can drop in on just steps from the Railway Museum. It's the starting point of many of Plano's public events, including the St. Patrick's Day Parade, dramatic performances, and Plano food festivals.
  
  
• Ebesu Robata & Sushi – 1007 East 15th Street, Plano, TX 75074
  Described as a modern Japanese bistro, Ebesu Robata & Sushi may well be home to the freshest and most flavorful sushi in Plano. The vision of distinguished head chef Koji Yoshida, the restaurant also offers New York strip steak and other entrees using Japanese-style barbecue.
  
  
• Courtyard Theater – 1509 H Avenue, Plano, TX 75074
  Courtyard Theater is a proscenium theater with capacity for 321 guests. The venue is one of the best-loved in Plano and has hosted weddings, recitals, stage plays, musicals, academic thesis defenses, meetings, birthdays, and other parties.
  
  
• ArtCentre of Plano – 902 East 16th Street, Plano, TX 75074
  ArtCentre of Plano is a unique local gallery space centered on the historic Saigling House. It has an expansive permanent collection relating to generations of Plano artists and also hosts temporary exhibitions focused on celebrating the contemporary American experience.

Contact us today to learn more about life in Plano, Texas.

Want to plan some outings that you and your kids can both enjoy? The DFW is full of family-friendly activities that are entertaining and educational. Our real estate agents love spending quality time with their families at these great spots around the Dallas-Fort Worth area.

• Museum of the American Railroad - 8004 N. Dallas Pkwy., Frisco, TX 75034
  Trains, both real and model versions, have long captivated the imagination of "kids" of all ages. In 1962, the Museum of the American Railroad was founded to preserve this important legacy in our country's history. TrainTopia is an incredibly detailed miniature railroad exhibit that includes a real movie playing at the famous Palo Duro drive-in theater. See pieces of the museum's rolling stock collection during guided tours, which are offered at specific times as the museum conducts its move to the new location near Frisco homes for sale. Hours are 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday and 1 p.m. - 5 p.m. Sunday. Admission starts at $10 for adults and $5 for ages 3-12.
  
  
• Yogi Kids - Fit Family, 3051 Churchill Dr., Suite 250, Flower Mound, TX 75022
  Yogi Kids incorporates fun activities such as yoga, Pilates, and dance to help your young ones get active and burn some energy. Fit Family also offers preschool play and after-school programs at schools not far from Flower Mound homes for sale. Mom and Dad can join the fun with yoga classes for adults. Visit the website for information about schedules and prices. 
  
  
• ArtCentre of Plano - 902 E. 16th St., Plano, TX 75074
  In 2021, the ArtCentre of Plano celebrated 40 years of supporting and promoting creativity in the local community. Located in historic Saigling House, just down the street from Plano homes for sale, the ArtCentre hosts exhibitions showcasing the works of a diverse range of artists. Don't miss the stunning Sculpture Garden, which includes a series of mosaic tiles honoring various donors to the ArtCentre. Hours are 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. 
  
  
• The Dallas Firefighters Museum - 3801 Parry Ave., Dallas, TX 75226
  At one time or another, nearly every kid dreams of becoming a firefighter. Learn more about the contributions of these heroic men and women at the Dallas Firefighters Museum. The historic fire station at Fair Park, only minutes from Dallas homes for sale, has served as the site of the museum since 1975. Exhibits include a steam engine dating back to 1884 along with authentic helmets, uniforms, and equipment from past years. The museum is open Wednesday through Saturday from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Tickets are $6 for adults and $4 for children.
  
  
• Cowtown Cattlepen Maze - Fort Worth Stockyards, 145 E. Exchange Ave., Fort Worth, TX 76164
  How well does your family work together? Sharpen your communication and cooperation skills at the Cowtown Cattlepen Maze, near Fort Worth homes for sale. Wooden pathways wind around a span of 5,400 square feet, posing an exciting challenge to everyone's sense of direction and deduction. Scope out the grounds from the spacious second-story observation deck. Hours are 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. daily and admission is $6.

Contact us RE/MAX DFW Associates for help with any of your real estate needs.

Legacy Food Hall is a favorite among residents around our Plano homes for sale who visit this spot regularly for great food, lively entertainment, and excellent company. In fact, this food hall was mentioned by Taste of Home as one of the Best Food Halls Across the United States.

Legacy Food Hall has been a landmark of downtown Plano since it opened in 2017. The hall opens at 10 AM every day and closes as late as 1 AM on Fridays and Saturdays, though some vendors may keep slightly different hours.  

The location also hosts a hall-wide happy hour every day between 3 PM and 6 PM, giving patrons the chance to mingle and pick up discounted drinks from any of the many bars on the premises. 

The Food 

The main attraction at the food hall is, of course, the food. The hall showcases nearly 20 food vendors specializing in cuisines from all over the world. Savor the sublime spiciness of Chilango's Tacos, sample high-grade lobster and other seafood from Dock Local, or treat yourself to a handcrafted marshmallow-laden dessert from the popular Mallow Box – it's all up to you.  

When it's time for a drink, you can head over to one of the many bars on the premises. One of the most popular is Unlawful Assembly Brewing Co., an award-winning local brewery with innovative brews like Public Dissent, Smoke Screen, and Peacemonger. Curious about how these beloved brews get made? The company offers brewery tours every Saturday to give guests the inside scoop.  

If you prefer cocktails over beer, Bar Main is the place for you. This elegant establishment serves Unlawful Assembly brews, but the real highlight is the range of handcrafted cocktails made using local alcohol as a base. Some of the most popular drinks on their signature menu are the White Mezcal Negroni, the Lucky Charm, and the Blackberry Bourbon Mule. 

The Entertainment 

This hall is more than just a place to sample some great local food – it also offers plenty of entertainment for patrons to enjoy. Their trivia nights and live DJ music liven up the atmosphere in the communal eating area and make the space feel like one big party. 

If you want to make your night out into a complete experience, head out to The Box Garden. This sizable outdoor space is a big part of the hall's appeal, especially for younger patrons. Here, you can enjoy live music, movies, dancing, sports broadcasts, and other public events among an enthusiastic crowd. You can also rent part or all of the space for special events like reunions or weddings.  

Legacy Food Hall is well worth visiting, but it's not the only exciting attraction near Plano. From nightlife to family day trips, this area is full of things to see and do. Interested in living a little closer to the action? Contact us today to arrange a viewing of a local home with one of our real estate agents; we'll be happy to help you find the perfect Plano property for you and your family.  

It may not be the horse-drawn sleigh of old, but your car serves as a perfect vehicle for seasonal adventures. Our real estate agents can't wait to take in these holiday light displays that are just minutes from Dallas homes for sale.

• Candy Cane Lane - American Airlines Center, 2500 Victory Ave., Dallas, TX 75219
  What "kid" of any age could resist a magical place called Candy Cane Lane? The multi-level display includes lights, lantern characters, and other holiday surprises. Don't forget to get a family photo with Santa Claus. Candy Cane Lane runs through December 26. Visit the website for times. Admission is $35-$50 per vehicle.
  
  
• Dallas Zoo Lights - Dallas Zoo, 650 S.R.L. Thornton Fwy., Dallas, TX 75203
  A beloved holiday tradition takes on a new form at Dallas Zoo Lights. Enjoy the one million lights, 3-D sculptures, and video projection vignettes along the one-mile course from the comfort of your car. Dallas Zoo Lights will be shining through January 2. Visit the website for the full schedule. Admission is $65 per car, $50 for Zoo members, and must be purchased in advance.
  
  
• Radiance! - Riders Field, 7300 Roughriders Trail, Frisco, TX 75034
  Theme parks aren't just for summer. This year's version of Radiance!, a popular holiday attraction down the street from Frisco homes for sale, includes "Frozen in Frisco," a winter carnival with tubing, ice skating, snowball fights, and even a Ferris wheel. Sit back on the Holly Jolly Trolley for a show featuring three million glittering, dancing lights. Tickets range from $19.99-$39.99 per person. Radiance! is open through January 1. Visit the website for dates and times.
  
  
• Interlochen Christmas Lights - Westwood Dr., Arlington, TX 76012
  For more than 40 years, Lake Interlochen has provided the backdrop for a cherished holiday tradition. Interlochen Christmas Lights was the brainchild of community developer Bob Findlay, and today upwards of 200 neighbors deck their homes with spectacular lights and decorations. View the impressive display near Arlington homes for sale from 7 p.m. - 11 p.m. nightly. 
  
  
• Historic Grapevine Christmas Spectacular - Town Square Gazebo, 325 Main St., Grapevine, TX 76051
  Find something old and something new at this year's Historic Grapevine Christmas Spectacular. It's only fitting that the "Christmas Capital of Texas" would offer a stunning display full of lights, life-sized Christmas cards, and an animated snowman. 2021 marks the debut of the outsized Main Street Toyland. Stop by after a day of viewing Grapevine homes for sale. Hours are 9 a.m. - 10 p.m. daily through January 10, and admission is free.
  
  
• Santa House - 3373 Spruce Ln., Grapevine, TX 76051
  Share in the giving spirit of the holidays when you visit Santa House. The Murillo family fills their yard with more than 1,000 brilliantly lit retro Santa figures to create a whimsical display of any child's dreams. Their ultimate goal is raising awareness of and funds for the Christmas Cottage, an organization providing holiday gifts for kids in need. Hours are 5 p.m. - 10 p.m. every day through December 25.
  
  
• Lights on the Farm - Heritage Farmstead Museum, 1900 W. 15th St., Plano, TX 75075
  Experience the charm of an old-fashioned holiday that runs through Lights on the Farm, not far from Plano homes for sale. Walk the quarter-mile trail through trees and displays covered with more than one million lights. Visit Santa's Workshop, where kids can write letters and get their pictures. Lights on the Farm is open beginning at 6 p.m. weekends through December 26. Tickets are $10 for adults and $7 for kids.

Have your own festive light display in your new DFW home. Contact us at RE/MAX DFW Associates to learn more.

When our real estate agents heard that National French Toast Day was coming up on November 28th, they got super excited! There are some great breakfast and brunch places in the Dallas–Fort Worth area, and this gave them a reason to try some of them out. 

Start your morning out right with French toast from these local restaurants. 

• Maple Leaf Diner: 12817 Preston Rd., Suite 129, Dallas, TX 75230
  If you're in the area looking at Dallas homes for sale, you'll want to pay a visit to the Maple Leaf Diner. This family-owned restaurant has been a favorite in Dallas since 2015. While many people opt for the traditional Canadian dishes on the menu, their French toast is pretty great too. Order it as a main dish with strawberries and cream puffs, as a "trio" with meat and eggs, or as a side item with one of their other amazing breakfast items. 

• Yolk: 305 Main St., Fort Worth, TX 76102
  Any time they're nearby showing Fort Worth homes for sale, our agents love visiting Yolk. This popular restaurant is known for making fun and creative breakfast dishes, offering specialty juices, and having their own private-label coffee. Their traditional French toast is served dusted with powdered sugar, or you can upgrade to 100% real maple syrup. We recommend adding fresh fruit, cinnamon apples, nuts, raisins, or chocolate chips. There are so many options, you could eat them every time you visit. Want something even more decadent? Try their Red Velvet French Toast - it's truly amazing! 

• Bread Winners Bakery & Bistro: 4021 Preston Rd., Plano, TX 75093
  If you're ready to try something new, you'll want to pay a visit to Bread Winners Bakery & Bistro. They have a Banana Bread French Toast that's topped with fresh bananas and whipped cream. If you're thinking about buying one of the beautiful Plano homes for sale, you're sure to become a regular here! Their weekend brunch is one of the best in the area.

• Cafe De France Bakery & Bistro: 17370 Preston Rd., Dallas, TX 75252
  When you're looking for great French toast, you really can't go wrong with a classic French restaurant. Cafe De France Bakery & Bistro has been a Dallas favorite since 1982. They make their French toast the traditional way - with Texas toast soaked in a special egg mix and served with warm syrup. When you finish your amazing breakfast, be sure to stop by the bakery for some truffles, homemade scones, or other tasty treats. Trust us - you'll be glad you did!

• Cindi's NY Delicatessen: 11111 N. Central Expwy, Suite G, Dallas, TX 75243
  With five locations throughout the Dallas area, Cindi's NY Delicatessen offers a truly unique dining experience. She makes amazing latkes, cheese blitzes, pecan pancakes, and, of course, incredible French toast. Her version is made with fresh Challah bread and served with a sprinkle of powdered sugar. For an extra treat, order it topped with fresh blueberries, strawberries, or bananas. 

If you're ready to enjoy amazing dining options like this all the time, we can help you find the perfect home in the Dallas–Fort Worth area. Contact us today to discuss your goals and start exploring your options. 

Everything's bigger in Texas, but it looks smaller when seen from the treetops. Ziplining is just one of the outdoor activities that make the Dallas-Fort Worth area such a great place to live. Our real estate agents recommend getting your adrenaline pumping at these exciting parks around the DFW.

1. Trinity Forest Adventure Park - 1820 Dowdy Ferry Rd., Dallas, TX 75217
   How high can you go? At Trinity Forest Adventure Park, not far from Dallas homes for sale, three different levels of elevation take you as far as 50 feet off the ground. Each course, ranked by a ski slope-style color-coded system, features obstacles such as wobble bridges, ladders, and free falls. The staff-led school lets you practice on the ground, then proceed at your own pace. Admission for a three-hour session ranges from $44.95-$54.95, with a minimum age of 6. Receive a $5 discount when you reserve online. Trinity Forest is open on weekends from 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.
   
   
2. Go Ape Adventure Park - Oak Point Park & Nature Preserve, 5901 Los Rios Blvd., Plano, TX 75074
   The signature jungle call is optional, but you'll certainly feel like Tarzan swinging through the trees at Go Ape Adventure Park. Located in the largest park near Plano homes for sale, Go Ape offers more than eight miles of trails and ziplines. Enjoy a thrilling two- to three-hour trip, passing over Rowlett Creek and above the trees and greenery of the surrounding area. Admission is $54.95 for ages 10-15 and $64.95 for ages 16 and up. Visit the website to view the schedule.
   
   
3. Urban Air Adventure Park - 9157 Harmon Rd., Fort Worth, TX 76177
   What goes up must come down at Urban Air Adventure Park. Soar above it all on Sky Rider, then take the plunge with Indoor Skydiving. With heart-pumping adventures such as climbing walls, rope courses, performance trampolines, and a flying trapeze, it's no surprise Urban Air was named "Best Gym in America for Kids" by Shape magazine. Keep your energy up with a tasty snack and refreshing beverage at the onsite cafe. All this fun is just minutes from Fort Worth homes for sale. Combo packages are available at prices ranging from $19.99-$34.99. Hours are 4 p.m. - 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 4 p.m. - 9 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. - 10 p.m. Saturday, and 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. Sunday.
   
   
4. DFW Adventure Park - 13055 Cleveland Gibbs Rd., Northlake, TX 76262
   Put that controller down and take part in some real-world gaming action at DFW Adventure Park. Join family and friends for a lively game of paintball that challenges your body and mind. Low impact, with a .50 caliber paintball for reduced impact, is perfect for beginners. The park also offers Splat Master, a variation for younger players. All-day play is $25, or $20 if you bring your own equipment. Hours are 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Sunday.
   
   
5. Widowmaker Trail Rides - 904 Quail Creek Ct., Southlake, TX 76092
   Get a taste of the old cowboy days right down the street from Southlake homes for sale with Widowmaker Trail Rides. Enjoy a two-hour ride around scenic Lake Grapevine, accompanied by an experienced guide who will help you get the most out of your experience. Rides are $100 per person and are scheduled by appointment only. 

After a day outdoors, there's nothing better than heading back to your own DFW home. Contact us at RE/MAX DFW Associates for friendly and experienced real estate help.

Whether you're permanently working from home or just want a space where you can create in peace, it's important to set up an inviting home office that you look forward to working in. Our real estate agents also find that a home with a home office is more appealing to potential buyers. You don't have to undergo a complete renovation to update your home office; instead, check out these simple ways to give your home office a boost. 

1. Add Fresh Paint to the Space
   The color of a room significantly influences the room's atmosphere and overall appearance. In general, lighter tones of gray, blue, and green work to create a soothing atmosphere for your home office. Some research indicates that a green hue enhances concentration. An additional benefit of light colors is that they reflect light, making your home office appear larger. If you're adding your home to the list of Fort Worth homes for sale, this will help maximize the home's appeal to potential buyers. 

2. Declutter the Room
   It's distracting to work in a space that has a lot of excess stuff. Go through the room and get rid of anything that doesn't have a purpose or that doesn't suit your current needs or aesthetics. If you are setting up your office in a shared space, such as your home's living room or basement, invest in organizational materials (like bins, cube storage, and shelves) to ensure non-work items are contained in an aesthetically pleasing way. 

3. Make Your Home Office Ergonomically Correct
   Invest in materials that keep your body healthy and comfortable while you work. An ergonomically correct desk chair is a must. Ideally, the chair will provide ample lower back support and encourage good posture so that you keep your spine and neck in alignment. If you're constantly looking down at your computer, invest in risers so that your screen is at eye level. Don't forget lighting! When you're writing or reading, a desk lamp is essential for proper illumination. 

4. See That the Space is Functional
   Your home office should be set up in a way that boosts your efficiency. Do you like to display your reports or paper graphics? Invest in a corkboard so that you don't take up precious desk space. Or, are you a frequent memo maker? A whiteboard is a must-have for your work area. If you use books or manuals, check that you have a bookshelf to contain and organize them so that you can quickly find what you need. 

5. Incorporate Life into Your Office Decor
   Indoor plants improve your concentration, enhance your home's air quality, and provide an easy source of decor for your room. When you list your home with other Plano homes for sale, plants will instantly make your home more inviting to prospective buyers. They also give your office a homey atmosphere. 

Searching for a home with a larger space for a home office? Contact us today to explore your options!

Mother's Day is fast approaching, and there's no better way to appreciate your mom than treating her to a delicious meal. Start Mother's Day with a memorable brunch at a fantastic local restaurant. Our real estate agents have rounded up some of the most exquisite DFW restaurants where you'll find a delicious treat that your mother will thoroughly enjoy: 

1. Reata Forth Worth—310 Houston Street, Sundance Square, Fort Worth, TX 76102
   Located close to Fort Worth homes for sale, this restaurant is renowned for its sophisticated cowboy cooking and exclusive wine list. Reata Fort Worth offers both private dining and family meals and is a great spot for Texans who are hankering for some mouth-watering food. If your mom is a lover of classic cuisine, she'll undoubtedly enjoy the restaurant's specialty items such as the Tenderloin Tamales or the Pan Seared Pepper Crusted Tenderloin. 
    
2. Pinstripes—5001 Trailhead Bend Way, Fort Worth, TX 76109
   Is there a better way to celebrate your mom than reserving her a spot at Pinstripes on Mother's Day? Pinstripes recently opened patio seating just in time for May 9th. Savor a world-class brunch with mom, washed down with discounted handcrafted cocktails. You can also win a brunch for your mom and the entire family by entering Pinstripes' Mother's Day competition. All you have to do is send a snap of your mom with a short description of what makes her special.
   
   
3. Snooze Eatery—3211 Oak Lawn Ave, Dallas, TX 75219
   This spot prides itself on being the number one breakfast and brunch restaurant near our Dallas homes for sale. Your mom will undoubtedly love Snooze Eatery's laidback attitude, tasty meals, and cozy ambiance. Start with green eggs and ham followed by a special Mother's Day soup or the restaurant's renowned hot and cold sandwiches. If your mom is a wine lover, she'll love the extensive wine list offered at Snooze Eatery. Takeaway services are available on request.
   
   
4. Yolk—8315 Westchester Drive, Dallas, TX 75225
   Treat your mom like the queen she is by reserving her a brunch at Yolk. The restaurant is renowned for its fantastic fusion breakfasts that your mom won't forget. The fresh approach to brunch is what makes the Yolk restaurants stand out. All foods are made from quality ingredients and are incredibly affordable. Thus, you can give your mom a treat without breaking the bank. Special discounts will be offered on Mother's Day, so you should be on the lookout for them.
   
   
5. Del Frisco's Grille—7200 Bishop Road, Suite D9, Plano, TX 75024
   Take a trip to Spain when you treat your mom to a Spanish brunch at Del Frisco's Grille. Here, you'll find seasoned, polished Spanish country cooking that has stood the test of time. Del Frisco's Grille is a favorite brunch spot for many Texans, thanks to its tasty foods, fine wines, and convenient location near Plano homes for sale. The welcoming ambiance at the restaurant allows you to eat, drink, and talk all day.

Do not hesitate to contact our real estate agents to see what we have on offer.

Valentine's Day is right around the corner. If you're looking for a way to impress that special someone, flower deliveries are always a big hit! 

Choosing the right florist can mean the difference between sending a gift that's truly stunning and one that's underwhelming. If you're not sure which florist to choose, you're in luck. Our real estate agents have had the pleasure of working with some of the best in the area. Here are a few of their recommendations. 

1. Petals and Stems: 13319 Montfort, Dallas, TX 75240
   Delivering smiles to customers since 1972, Petals and Stems offers a wide selection of flower arrangements, plants, and gift baskets. This family-operated flower shop guarantees fresh products, prompt delivery, and gorgeous designs. Many of their employees have more than 10 years of experience. Their floral designers are also the proud recipients of the 2019 Floral Design Challenge. No matter what the occasion, you can trust Petals and Stems to make it special. If you've been considering buying one of the beautiful Dallas homes for sale, you'll want to get to know this great florist!
   
   
2. Fort Worth Florist and Gifts: 8247 Camp Bowie W. Blvd., Fort Worth, TX 76116
   When we're in the area showing Fort Worth homes for sale, we love stopping by Fort Worth Florist and Gifts. Not only do they offer unique and beautiful floral arrangements, but they also carry a variety of fun gifts like scarves, jewelry, candy, decor, and even silk flower teddy bears. This florist understands the importance of presentation and never disappoints. When you find yourself in need of a last-minute gift, Fort Worth Florist will take care of you. They offer in-store pickup, curbside pickup, and same-day delivery.
   
   
3. Evergreen Florist: 6449 University Hills Blvd., Dallas, TX 75241
   Family-owned and operated Evergreen Florist carries a large inventory of fresh flowers, tropical plants, and European dish gardens. Whether you're looking for a traditional bouquet or you want to think outside the box with a silk or dried floral arrangement, their pros will create a unique and beautiful gift for you. 
   
   
4. Z's Florist: 3909 W. Parker Rd., Plano, TX 75023
   Located not far from some of the best Plano homes for sale, popular flower shop Z's Florist creates beautiful, hand-crafted flower arrangements. They also carry various unique and interesting plants and flowers, including succulents, lilies, roses, gerbera, tropicals, and more. Z's Florist offers same-day delivery, making them ideal for your last-minute gift-giving needs.
   
   
5. City View Florist and Gifts: 6120 Bryant Irvan Rd., Fort Worth, TX 76132
   One of the area's oldest and most loved florists, City View Florist and Gifts has been a Fort Worth staple since 2006. They hand-deliver stunning arrangements that promise to make a lasting impression. Whether you need a single bouquet or a larger order, they'll go out of their way to exceed your expectations. City View Florist and Gifts offers arrangements for weddings, holiday events, corporate events, and funerals. They're also the go-to florist for hand-tied bouquets, plants, gifts, and fruit baskets. Not sure what you need? No problem! Their experts also offer free floral consultations. 

Are you ready to find a home you can truly fall in love with just in time for Valentine's Day? We're here to help! Your dream home is out there waiting for you, so don't delay. Contact us today to discuss your goals and get started. 

Wouldn't it be nice to live in a city where you can have it all, without breaking the bank? While so many of the most popular cities to call home come with a cost of living that's significantly higher than average, that isn't the case when you live in Plano, TX. Plano offers all of the benefits of the best cities, with an affordable cost of living that makes it easy to enjoy all the city has to offer. Our real estate agents have all the details on the affordable cost of living in Plano and why it's such a great place to call home.

• Plano Is an Affordable City with so Much to Offer
  According to REALTOR® Magazine, Plano has the 15th lowest cost of living of any city in the country. The rankings are calculated based on the combination of utilities, food, essential services, and the monthly cost of living. Add it all up, and Plano costs about $1,750 per month to live, which puts it on par with cities like Virginia Beach, VA, and Tulsa, OK. That is less than half the cost of some of the most expensive cities in the country, like San Francisco ($4,315 per month), New York City ($4,178 per month), and Boston ($3,426 per month).

• Why Choose a City with a Low Cost of Living?
  When you shop for Plano homes for sale, you can be confident that you will make the most of your income in your new city. A lower cost of living impacts life in so many positive ways and may even influence your home search. When you know you will have lower monthly costs, you may be able to buy "more home for your money" and dedicate more of your budget to your home. Even after you close the deal on your home, a low cost of living leaves more money to customize your property and keep up with maintenance needs without tapping into emergency funds.

• Plano Offers an Affordable Cost of Living Combined with Excellent Income
  When you analyze many of the cities with the lowest cost of living, you will find that those cities also have a comparatively low-income rate compared to more expensive cities. That is not the case in Plano, where you will find an affordable lifestyle combined with income numbers that actually beat many more expensive cities. The average household income for Plano residents is actually more than $88,000, which checks in more than $30,000 above the average city in the United States. 

• How Will You Make the Most of Your Money in Plano?
  Ultimately, the benefits of strong income numbers and an affordable cost of living depend on the individual. Do you dream of buying a home that you can customize to your heart's content? Would you like to boost your savings for a rainy day or put away money to send your kids to a great college? What about making the most of your downtime, with extra money for entertainment, travel, and exploring the city? When you live in Plano, you can truly have the best of both worlds.

Are you searching for a vibrant, affordable city where you can make the most of your money? Our team is here to help you find the perfect home. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Plano, TX area.

Whatever else is going on in our lives, Thanksgiving is a constant, providing us with a comforting sense of gratitude. Celebrate in style with a fine-dining feast from one of these upscale restaurants around DFW recommended by our real estate agents. 

• Mignon - 4005 Preston Rd., Suite 518, Plano, TX 75093
  With its intimate booths, Mondrian-style abstract artwork and elegant wood surfaces, dining at Mignon, just minutes from Plano homes for sale, feels like being in a scene from a 1960s French film. The three-course, $54 prix-fixe Thanksgiving menu begins with soup or salad, followed by turkey breast with stuffing, sweet potatoes, green beans, and cranberry relish. For dessert, choose between apple pie and pumpkin cheesecake. Substitute filet mignon or Chilean sea bass for an additional charge. Two private dining rooms for each seating time allow safe social distancing. Hours are 8:45 a.m. - 5 p.m. with a two-hour limit.
  
  
• Fearing's Restaurant - 2121 McKinney Ave., Dallas, TX 75201
  Located in the iconic Ritz-Carlton Hotel, Fearing's Restaurant was recently named #1 among the "Top Dallas Restaurants for Celebrating Special Occasions." The elegant Thanksgiving menu is in keeping with the restaurant's high standards and sense of style. Start with a choice of four appetizers before moving on to the main course of turkey, halibut, beef tenderloin, or lamb osso buco, finishing with one of three different desserts. Price is $125 per person. Hours are 10:30 a.m. - 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. - 8 p.m.
  
  
• Hotel Crescent Court - 400 Crescent Court, Dallas, TX 75201
  Turn your home into the most exclusive dining room around Dallas homes for sale. Thanksgiving To-Go from Hotel Crescent Court does all the work while you get all the credit. The holiday feast includes a whole turkey, salad, bread and dinner rolls, and assortment of classic side dishes along with a pumpkin pie and apple pie, enough to feed 8-10 people. Price is $275 plus tax and a 10 percent service charge. Visit the website to order by 2:30 p.m. on Monday, November 23. Orders may be picked up Wednesday, November 25 between 5 - 7 p.m. and Thursday, November 26 between 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. 
  
  
• Perry's Steakhouse & Grill - 2440 Parkwood Blvd., Frisco, TX 75034
  Whether you prefer dining out or enjoying Thanksgiving in the comfort of your own home, Perry's Steakhouse & Grill has got you covered. Dine-in guests at the popular restaurant near Frisco homes for sale may order from the special Thanksgiving Day $45 prix-fixe menu or the regular dinner menu. For your convenience, the holiday meal can be ordered for curbside pickup at the same price plus a 15 percent handling fee. Kids' meals for ages 12 and under are available for $15, both dine-in and carryout. Hours are 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.
  
  
• Bacchus Kitchen + Bar - 215 E. Dallas Rd., Grapevine, TX 76051
  Named after the Roman god of wine, Bacchus Kitchen + Bar, not far from Grapevine homes for sale, is all about that ancient civilization's tradition of celebratory feasts. The daily menu highlights contemporary cuisine made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, and the same holds true for the special Thanksgiving Day menu. Enjoy a family-style meal featuring cider-brined turkey or bourbon maple-glazed ham accompanied by gourmet sides, including jalapeño corn bread stuffing and roasted garlic and crème fraiche whipped potatoes. Price is $75 for adults and $30 for kids over age 5. Hours are 6:30 a.m. - 10 p.m.

In 2021, will you be giving thanks for a new home in Dallas or Fort Worth? Contact us at RE/MAX DFW Associates for help with all your real estate questions. 

East-West Line thru Plano, Richardson, North Dallas, Addison, Carrollton, Coppell, Cypress Waters, DFW Airport

Completion Date – December 22, 2022

Trains every 20 minutes

The final approved DART Cotton Belt Line from Plano to DFW Airport

The Dallas Area Rapid Transit board on Tuesday approved $872 million to build its first east-west commuter rail line — the Cotton Belt — even though it doesn't have the actual cash quite yet.  DART leaders met with the Build America Bureau in Washington, D.C., last week to confirm that the federal loan that will finance a 26-mile route connecting Plano, Richardson, Addison, North Dallas and DFW International Airport is expected to close Dec. 20.  Within the next few weeks, DART expects to be issued a notice to move forward on the project with its design-build partner, Archer Western Herzog 4.0, which was unanimously awarded an $815 million contract Tuesday night, contingent on the federal loan. The contract will run through Dec. 28, 2022, the anticipated completion date.

It also kept the door open for the board to decide next month whether to spend an additional $90 million to $120 million to add a second track along the line, something the board listed as a preference.  "We've discussed the double-track subject for a couple of years," board member Paul Wageman said. "We're going to have significant savings over what we thought the finance costs were on this."  Cotton Belt was budgeted as a $1.1 billion project.

About half of the project, including the nine rail stations, is double-tracked as currently bid. Though plans are for Cotton Belt to debut as an every-30-minute service, the contract also calls for three more miles to be double-tracked. That would enable enough two-way passing opportunities to allow runs every 20 minutes.  If it doesn't fully double-track the line, the board also has the option to spend $27 million to add a second track to a three-mile area of Far North Dallas, where grade levels and four bridge crossings pose a challenge.

The contract already includes $32 million in "betterments" for neighborhoods lining the route, providing for sound walls, rubber chips to minimize track vibration and other amenities.  The first six to eight months, according to staff presentations, will focus on design of the project. The first signs of progress on the ground will be utility relocation and foundation work for bridges.

The Cotton Belt will also connect to DART's existing light rail system at stops in Carrollton, Plano and Richardson. But it will be a commuter rail line, similar to the Trinity River Express, which DART co-owns with Fort Worth's Trinity Metro and connects downtown Dallas and Fort Worth.

• Dallas Morning News, December 12, 2018

North Texas home sales dropped in September by the largest percentage in more than seven years. Preowned home sales in the area fell by 7 percent from September 2017. That was the biggest year-over-year sales decline since early 2011, according to data from the Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University and North Texas Real Estate Information Systems.  Home sales by real estate agents have been down in three of the last four months. Higher mortgage costs and years of rising home prices have caused some buyers to pull back from the market.  Mortgage rates on average are currently about 4.7 percent — the highest level in seven years — and are expected to go higher in 2019.  With September's sales decline, preowned home sales by real estate agents in North Texas are now flat with the same period of 2017. A record of more than 106,000 homes sold in the area last year.  "We think things are going to be flat," said Dr James Gaines, chief economist for the Real Estate Center. The Dallas-Fort Worth housing market has cooled significantly since early in the year when sales were still up by double-digit percentage rates from 2017 levels.

Home price growth has also slowed.  Median home sales prices rose by 4 percent in September from a year earlier to $251,000.  For the first nine months of 2018, prices are up 5 percent from the sale period in 2017. With sales declining, the number of houses on the market in North Texas has growth to 25,895 preowned single-family homes listed with real estate agents at the end of last month. That's 16 percent more homes for sale in the area than a year ago.  On average it took 44 days to sell the houses that trade in September — up 5 percent from a year earlier. Currently there is about a 3-month supply of homes available for purchase in the more than two dozen North Texas counties included in the survey.

• Dallas Morning News, October 9, 2018

"I would expect this somewhat disappointing spring selling season will be a bit of a wake-up call for (North Dallas suburban) home sellers, and they will eventually consider lowering asking prices, which in turn will bring some buyers back to the table," Attom Data economist Daren Blomquist said.

The slowdown in Dallas-Fort Worth's housing market may be worse than at first glance. Sales of preowned single-family homes dropped 1 percent annually in August in all of North Texas, according to the latest numbers from the Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University. Those numbers include data on more than two dozen counties stretching from the Red River to Waco. When you drill down in the numbers to just the immediate D-FW area, August's dip in home purchase activity was much larger. In the Dallas area, sales of preowned homes by real estate agents fell by about 4 percent in August from a year earlier. Fort Worth-area sales managed to eke out a 1 percent year-over-year rise in home purchases made through real estate agents. But some Dallas-area residential districts saw marked declines in home buying last month.

Real estate agents say the overall numbers understate the housing sector cooldown. A look at individual neighborhoods gives clearer insight into the state of the market.  Sales last month were down almost 31 percent in Far North Dallas. They dropped 24 percent from August 2017 totals in Allen, and were off 21 percent in Coppell. Plano had a 16 percent year-over-year sales decline and sales were down more than 11 percent in Richardson and about 9 percent lower in Frisco. Not all of North Texas' markets saw the housing market hit the brakes. Sales soared 40 percent in Prosper, for instance, and were 37 percent higher in DeSoto. The pricey Park Cities market had a 29 percent jump in August sales from the previous year.

• Dallas Morning News, September 17, 2018

Is the housing boom running out of gas?  During the last few years, the home market has been on a tear in North Texas and in other parts of the country, with prices soaring and buyers lining up as soon as a sign hits the front yard.  But there are growing signs that the fast-paced housing market is shifting gears, with a decline in sales in many markets and smaller price increases.  In July, U.S. preowned home sales fell from a year ago for the fifth month in a row. And nationwide new home sales were down almost 2 percent in July, causing analysts at IHS Markit to question if the bull home market has turned bearish.  "The economy is strong. Labor markets are solid. Yet, new home sales and single-family housing starts and permits have stalled. How can this be?" said Patrick Newport, executive director of the U.S. economics team at IHS.

Newport said rising home prices and higher mortgage rates have cooled the ardor for home buying.  "This has choked off demand," he said. A slowdown in immigration and household formation could also be factors, Newport theorizes.  In North Texas, year-over-year preowned home sales have fallen in many neighborhoods, and for the entire region, year-to-date sales were up a measly 2 percent as of July.  At the same time, the double-digit percentage home price gains of the last few years have faded in Dallas-Fort Worth. Through the first seven months of 2018, median home sales prices were up only 6 percent from the same period last year, according to sales data from real estate agents.

Property agents say that some first-time buyers have given up after losing out to other buyers or all-cash investors who snapped up affordable homes.  At midyear, the number of prospective U.S. homebuyers who said they planned to make a purchase in the next 12 months fell to just 14 percent — down from 24 percent in fourth quarter of 2017, according to the National Association of Home Builders. That's still another sign that the home market — while not in a traditional bubble — may be headed for slower sales in the year ahead.  "It's clear that the winds that have boosted sellers over the past few years are ever-so-slightly starting to shift," said Zillow senior economist Aaron Terrazas.

• Dallas Morning News, August 27, 2018

Dallas-Fort Worth was one of the top destinations for domestic migrants from California in 2017, according to a recent study.  There were 1,051 moves from coastal California, the home of some of the country's toughest housing markets, to Dallas in the first quarter of 2017, according to Alexandra Lee, a housing analyst with the real estate listing and research site Trulia, which did the study.  Out of 19,132 moves out of the region during that time period, 5.5 percent went to D-FW.   Houston is also a popular destination for people fleeing the California coast — 3 percent of the migrants in the study came to Texas' most populous city, meaning that 8.5 percent of those in the study came to either Dallas-Fort Worth or Houston.   The Trulia report looked at census data for transplants from four coastal California hubs: San Francisco, San Jose, Los Angeles and San Diego. Homes in those markets listed for an average of $720,000 in March 2017, Trulia says, compared to $313,000 in Dallas and $250,000 nationally.   The home prices in these cities is clearly a major determinant in whether people leave California and to where they move, Lee said over email, but it's not the be-all and end-all.  Texas is a big destination for job-to-job flows, a U.S. Census Bureau-designed statistic that measures flows of employees from one company to another when they've been at each company longer than three quarters. The biggest source of these flows is California, which contributed 6,884 in the first quarter of 2016.

• Dallas Morning News, June 28, 2018

SOURCE: Estimates from Texas Education Agency

• Dallas Morning News, July 4, 2018 (excerpts)

  *School districts with relatively low enrollment (below 1,500 students)

Coppell and Highland Park Pay the Most Per Capita

Property taxes continue to rise, but increasingly for taxpayers in North Texas, those dollars aren't going to local school districts.  According to estimates from the Texas Education Agency for the 2018-19 school year, 25 D-FW school districts are expected to surrender $539 million back to the state through recapture, the mechanism designed to better balance school funding between "property-rich" and "property-poor" districts.  Statewide, the TEA estimates that 217 school districts will be subject to recapture for the upcoming school year, with $2.69 billion of local property taxes siphoned back to the state.  

In the North Texas area, Coppell and Highland Park school districts send the most to the state per capita, both classified as "property-rich" districts to help pay for the "property-poor" districts around the state, mostly along the Texas border with Mexico.   Interestingly, Frisco ISD has not been classified as a "property-rich" district but that may change as early as next year, in which then millions of tax dollars will be required to be sent to the state.  This will be a financial dilemma for Frisco since the school district has been unable to get voter approval for higher taxes.